Final Meeting For Marine Reserve Plan In San Diego

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Aired 10/20/10

After nearly two years, the process to create a marine reserve off San Diego's coast is coming to an end. A Fish and Game Commission meeting Wednesday in San Diego is the final chance for the public to comment on the plan before the state agency makes a final decision on the proposed plan.

After nearly two years, the process to create a marine reserve off San Diego's coast is coming to an end. A Fish and Game Commission meeting Wednesday in San Diego is the final chance for the public to comment on the plan before the state agency makes a final decision on the proposed plan.

The Marine Life Protection Act requires the state to restrict fishing and other activities in underwater areas off the California coastline.

The goal is to allow dwindling fish species and other marine life to return in larger numbers.

The area being considered for Southern California includes sections off San Diego County's coastline from La Jolla to Encinitas.

"We've seen a decline of many fish species and we're looking to correct that through this process," said Kate Hanley with San Diego Coastkeeper.

Hanley said some studies show that creating marine reserves not only help fish thrive in those areas, but the growing population spills over outside the reserves, providing more stock for fishermen.